On January 20, 2025, took place the official opening of the new Kamal Theatre in Kazan. It was designed by the architectural bureau Wowhaus in collaboration with the Japanese architects Kengo Kuma & Associates. The ceremony was attended by the Rais of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov, the Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation Olga Lyubimova, the Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities of the Russian Federation Irek Fayzullin, and the Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin.
At the opening ceremony, the Rais of Tatarstan noted: “There’s no doubt that this isn’t just a theater, but a space with enormous potential. It’s a precious gem, a diamond for our capital. And, of course, we must take advantage of this to make this a center not only for the republic, but for our entire country.”
The comprehensive lighting design solution for the interior, facades, and territory of the new theater was developed by QPRO. The lighting designers described the architectural lighting features of the facade and surrounding area:

Creating the evening appearance of this unique building was a truly ambitious undertaking for the QPRO team. The architectural concept demanded flawless execution, so the lighting design solutions were carefully verified at every stage of the project, and the lighting designers regularly visited the site to conduct mockups. A comprehensive approach and meticulous oversight at every stage ensured the precise execution of the intended lighting effects, which now impress both Kazan residents and tourists.
The concept for the new theater envisions a harmonized blend of Kazan’s nature, culture, and urban environment, drawing on the city’s distinctive symbols. The triangular elements of the facade are inspired by two images—natural and cultural. These are primarily “ice flowers”—a unique natural phenomenon characteristic of Lake Kaban. At the same time, the triangular elements also reference the original Kamala Theater building with its recognizable facade.

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